Controversy erupts over exclusionary demand in Maharashtra ‘Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin’ scheme
Team Clarion
MUMBAI – Amidst the rollout of Maharashtra’s ‘Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin’ scheme aimed at empowering women, a divisive demand has emerged from Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) leader Prakash Mahajan. He has urged the state government to exclude Muslim women with more than two children from benefiting under the scheme. This demand, citing concerns over misuse and eligibility, has stirred widespread condemnation, and is being seen as a manifestation of Islamophobia.
The scheme, announced recently in the interim budget presented by Finance Minister Ajit Pawar, promises a monthly assistance of Rs 1,500 to married, divorced, and destitute women aged 21-65 years. Initially conceived to support women in need across Maharashtra, the scheme’s criteria have sparked political controversy with Mahajan’s exclusionary stance.
The MNS leader voiced concerns over non-residents taking undue advantage of the scheme, emphasising the need for residency certificates to prevent exploitation by outsiders. He also highlighted changes in the scheme’s eligibility criteria, including the removal of age limit up to 65 years and relaxation in land ownership requirements. Despite these modifications aimed at broadening accessibility, Mahajan’s specific targeting of Muslim women with more than two children has drawn sharp criticism.
Chief Minister Eknath Shinde’s administration, while expanding eligibility to include more women, faces scrutiny over the perceived discriminatory nature of Mahajan’s demand. The scheme now invites applications until August 31, 2024, requiring applicants to meet criteria such as state residency, income limits, and possession of a bank account.
As the controversy unfolds, stakeholders debate the balance between inclusive social welfare and discriminatory practices. Critics argue that singling out Muslim women based on family size undermines principles of equality and religious freedom, while proponents of stringent eligibility criteria argue for fiscal prudence and local benefit.
The fallout from Mahajan’s demand underscores ongoing tensions over religious and social policies in Maharashtra. It remains to be seen how the state government navigates these challenges while ensuring equitable access to welfare benefits for all eligible women.
The ‘Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin’ scheme, intended to uplift marginalised women, now stands at the centre of a broader discourse on inclusion, discrimination, and the role of state welfare in Maharashtra’s socio-political landscape.
